RN Warehouse

Virginia nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

Virginia is a compact state (since January 2018). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in Virginia in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Virginia, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycle30
RN endorsement fee$190
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
Last day of birth month; even-year births renew in even years, odd-year births in odd years
Renewal fee
$140
Continuing education
30 contact hours per renewal cycle
Required CE topics
None found on the board's pages.
Endorsement fee
$190
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. Endorsement applicants may practice 30 days after receiving a board authorization letter once the criminal background check is submitted (extension possible)
How to apply
Submit endorsement application and fingerprint-based criminal history background check (Va. Code 54.1-3005.1); verify license via Nursys.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Virginia from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

Virginia Board of Nursing (Department of Health Professions)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · CE rules
This page summarizes Virginia's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email [email protected].

Sources